History of Howdy

As a result of competition from ABC's Mickey Mouse Club during the mid-1950s, NBC decided to start broadcasting Howdy Doody in color. This move did not do much to attract viewers, as only a small percentage of U.S. households had color TV sets at the time. The series was revamped further during the summer of 1956, with the incorporation of more variety show elements and the switch to exclusively Saturday mornings. Instead of five episodes per week, four episodes were taped each month. In order retain its target demographic, the network frequently informed the public about the retool in magazines and press releases.

Revamping the series and decent ratings were simply not enough. Advertisers favored sponsoring programs aimed towards the general public and the show began losing profits. In order to cut costs, production was moved outside of the Rockefeller Center in 1958.

In 1959, viewership for Howdy Doody began to peak for the first time in years. This was because of ABC's decision to cancel The Mickey Mouse Club. Despite this, the show still struggled to attract advertisers. Later that year, network executives considered ending production altogether for that very reason. However, producer Roger Muir persuaded them to give him another chance. As a result, he hired Shari Lewis.

The hiring of new writers caused the series improved in quality. While the amount of slapstick was decreased, more action was added into plot-lines. Educational elements were incorporated into each episode, as well as references to popular culture. Despite all of these changes, the series still retained its charm..

Also, the show could finally attract sponsors. Companies such as Mattel, General Mills, and Schwinn began advertising their producuts on The Howdy Doody Show, which had trouble attracting sponsors up to that point.

Commercials were later removed in 1972.